51 31 021 Removing and installing/replacing rubber frame for windscreen (top)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove both gutter strips on windscreen

IMPORTANT: Rubber frame (1) features an aluminum section inlay (2).
If necessary, detach adhesive tape (9) between rubber frame (1) and roof outer skin.
If necessary, remove fitted spacer buffers (8).
Carefully unwind rubber frame (1) (windscreen breakage).

Fig 1: Removing Rubber Frame

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Tear-off lip (5) may be stuck to adhesive (4).
When rubber frame (1) is removed, tear-off lip (5) can tear off and remain in vehicle.

3 Windscreen

6 Bridge

7 Pinched butyl

Replacement of rubber frame without windscreen removal

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Detach tear-off lip (4) from rubber frame (1).

If adhesive leaks over tear-off lip (4), this area must be cut out partially.

To facilitate installation, coat rubber frame (1) and body cutout with water.

Install rubber frame (1).

Fig 2: Identifying Sealing Lip, Rubber Frame, Tear-Off Lip And Aluminum Strip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary, pull liner* off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape

5 Aluminum strip

* Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Replacement of rubber frame with removed or new windscreen

There is no sealing lip (2) in area (A) on left/right.

Fit rubber frame (1) with tear-off lip (4).

After installing windscreen: If necessary, pull liner* off adhesive tape (6) and press rubber frame (1) down firmly on roof outer skin.

3 Butylene tape

5 Aluminum strip

* Liner is the protective film on adhesive tape (6).

Fig 3: Identifying Sealing Lip, Rubber Frame, Tear-Off Lip And Aluminum Strip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.